Amcor Rigid Plastics has announced the development of unique hot-fill polyethylene terephthalate (PET) containers which accept metal lug closures – a first for the food packaging industry. The breakthrough technology, called the A-PEX63TM system, was unveiled at the Private Label Manufacturers Association (PLMA) annual trade show Nov. 16-18 (Booth #F2117/2118) in Rosemont, Ill.

The innovative technology allows the fitment of metal lug closures to blow-and-trim 24oz hot-fill containers. For the first time, consumers who are familiar with the look and quality feel of a glass jar with a metal lug closure can now enjoy the same quality and reassurance of the fresh "pop" of a metal lug closure on a lightweight, shatter-proof PET jar.

The A-PEX63 TM system ensures that sealing integrity is maintained and meets the industry average for removal torque (ease of opening). Brand owners can also maintain the same brand equity with the switch from glass to PET. The patent-pending technology was achieved through the use of advanced design and engineering techniques, according to Bunlim Ly, senior marketing manager for Amcor Rigid Plastics.

"This is a major development which firmly positions PET hot-fill containers in the food packaging industry," said Ly. "We've filled an important need for consumers and brand owners who seek the benefits of PET containers with metal lug closures, delivering the same quality and freshness associated with glass along with significant performance, manufacturing, and sustainability benefits."

The enabling technology creates "a paradigm shift" for the food packaging industry from conventional glass with metal closures to plastic with metal closures, according to Peter Bates, Amcor's senior R&D engineer who worked closely on the technology. "This is a unique solution which mimics glass in its acceptance of metal closures while also providing all the inherent benefits of plastics," said Bates.